Independence
from United Kingdom : April 27, 1961National
holiday: Republic Day: April 27 Constitution:
October 1, 1991; subsequently amended several times President elected on
March 29 1996: Mr. Ahmad Tejan KABBAH; ousted by a coup few months latter and
reinstated on March 10,1998

After a decade of civil war (1991-2001) Sierra Leone settled into
peace.

On May 15, 2002, presidential
ballot brought to power Ahmad Tejan Kabbah who served one term to be replaced
by President Ernest Bai KOROMA - since 17 September 2007
- re-elected to a second term; (Ernest Bai KOROMA 58.7%, Julius
Maada BIO 37.4%).

Further, democracy normality is gaining ground
as on May 22, 2004, Sierra Leoneans vote - for the first time since 1973
- for local council elections.

Therefore, one can assert Sierra Leone is now on
the right path to political stability that would be greatly consolidated only
if the economy is boosted to creating jobs to cope with the "huge" existing demand.

Indeed, the quickest the economy is revived, the best for the future of the
country as activists and warriors from the 1990-2000's civil war are jobless
and represent a potential threat for the peace process.

A passport and visa are required, and the visa must be obtained in advance. Travelers
should obtain the latest information and details from the nearest Sierra Leone's
embassy or consulate or the Tourism office below listed.

Lungi International
Airport (FNA) is 10 mi/15 km north of Freetown. The main airport is reached by
ferry service, which operates only at high tide, and which therefore can take
several hours (be sure to give yourself plenty of time to make your flight). .

At Freetown there are several hotels equipped to international
standards, but
it is advisable to book in advance and get a local collaborator/business
partner support for confirmation. You may also visit Lonely
Planet Website for more or Yahoo
destinations page

It is best to take along cash in US Dollar, as
travelers' checks are not of common usage. Even credit cards like Diners Club,
Visa and MasterCard are not often accepted although American Express is more popular.

The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited, but it must
be declared at the point of entry. Ensure that this declaration is stamped
at the entry point and keep all money exchange receipts.

Import
and export of local currency is restricted to Le50 000 Click
here for currency equivalence.